Whether you’re after an opportunity to network or simply let your hair down and have some fun, MEETINGS 2011 has you covered.

The organisers of this year’s business tourism event in Rotorua understand the importance of having time to unwind and meet informally so have pulled together a diverse array of social events to help buyers and exhibitors connect with each other.

To get MEETINGS off to an energetic start a special welcome function has been organised at Skyline Rotorua on Tuesday, June 21. MEETINGS’ visitors will be able to enjoy spectacular views of the city and experience some of the adventure activities that Rotorua is famed for as they mingle with other attendees.

In the morning buyers can get their business day off to an inspired start at the Breakfast Speakers Showcase, sponsored by Events & Venues Rotorua, Certain Software and Celebrity Speakers. This new addition to the programme is being hosted by renowned actor and corporate entertainer Greg Ward and will feature four 10 minute presentations from esteemed scientist Sir Ray Avery, award-winning current affairs journalist Mike McRoberts, Altantic yachtsman Tony Mowbray and Certain Software’s event management guru Bill Taylor.

On the first official night of the event there will be a special themed dinner at Rotorua’s historic Blue Baths, hosted by Rotorua Convention Bureau, where buyers are invited to a night of glamour and grace.

And on the final night of the event, the MEETINGS dinner at the Energy Events Centre is themed by Event Impressions and features some exciting new entertainment products.

“We have put together a spectacular night, including a surprise show piece to reflect New Zealand, with a special nod to Christchurch,” says Jacqui Alexander of Event Impressions. “This will be quite unique.”

Other treats in store for attendees at MEETINGS include delicious lunches, mornings and afternoon teas and a free coffee service, sponsored by the Reserve Group, that allows you to text your order and get your favourite hot drink delivered straight to you. Hosted buyers who can stay an extra day can also look forward to an action-packed day exploring the stunning Rotorua region.

This year offers a new day-buyer opportunity in Rotorua - MEETINGS Big Day Out.

Auckland based day buyers can enjoy a luxury coach journey to Rotorua, with breakfast on board, networking with fellow buyers, meetings with exhibitors, a delicious lunch in Rotorua and luxury coach return to Auckland at the end of the day.
“We’re thrilled to be able to offer such a comprehensive social programme because we know it’s important people have a chance to network informally and to get to know each other in a relaxed, non-pressured environment,” says MEETINGS event manager Jeanette Stanton.

“We couldn’t have put together such a fabulous programme without the generous support of Air New Zealand, Rotorua Host Hotels and all our many supporting sponsors and I would really like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank them for their contribution.”

More than 500 guests are expected to attend MEETINGS at the Rotorua Energy Events Centre on June 22 and 23. They include key influencers and buyers in the lucrative conference and incentive market, who are instrumental in selecting event venues on behalf of domestic and foreign corporate entities and associations.